How to Travel from Mecca to Medina: Full Guide
The journey between Mecca and Medina is one of the most spiritually significant routes in the world. Whether you’re traveling for pilgrimage or sightseeing, knowing how to get from Mecca to Medina comfortably and efficiently is key. From high-speed trains to long-distance buses, this guide covers every option - highlighting the safest, fastest, and most reliable way to travel.
Last updated: 25.07.2025
Last updated: 25.07.2025
High-Speed Train
If you’re wondering how to get to Medina from Mecca, the Haramain High-Speed Railway is by far the most efficient and comfortable option. Covering the journey in just over two hours, the train runs at speeds of up to 300 km/h, connecting Mecca, Jeddah, King Abdulaziz Airport, and Medina. Trains operate multiple times a day, making it flexible for both locals and international visitors.
Food and drinks are available onboard via mobile trolleys, and the stations are modern, well-equipped, and feature smooth check-in and security procedures.
Food and drinks are available onboard via mobile trolleys, and the stations are modern, well-equipped, and feature smooth check-in and security procedures.
You can choose between Economy and Business Class, both offering air-conditioned cabins, reclining seats, prayer areas, and clean restrooms. Whether you’re heading for Umrah or simply exploring Saudi Arabia, this is the safest and most convenient option.
Ticket prices range from SAR 150–250 ($40–67) depending on the class and how early you book. Platforms like High-Speed Trains make it easy to reserve your seat in advance.
Ticket prices range from SAR 150–250 ($40–67) depending on the class and how early you book. Platforms like High-Speed Trains make it easy to reserve your seat in advance.
Taxi
For travelers seeking direct and private service, a taxi or private car hire is an option. The distance between Mecca and Medina is approximately 450 km and takes around 4.5 to 5 hours by car. While convenient for door-to-door service, this option is less economical, especially for solo travelers.
Expect to pay anywhere between SAR 600–1000 ($160–265) depending on the type of car, time of day, and negotiation. Some travelers prefer this method for flexibility, especially if traveling with family or lots of luggage.
Expect to pay anywhere between SAR 600–1000 ($160–265) depending on the type of car, time of day, and negotiation. Some travelers prefer this method for flexibility, especially if traveling with family or lots of luggage.
Bus
If you’re traveling on a budget and are comfortable with a longer journey, intercity buses operated by SAPTCO (Saudi Public Transport Company) are a popular and reliable option for getting from Mecca to Medina. These buses typically depart multiple times a day and take approximately 6 to 8 hours, depending on road conditions and stopovers. Buses are air-conditioned and offer reclining seats, luggage compartments, and sometimes onboard entertainment.
Travelers will appreciate the relatively low cost and the availability of frequent services, especially during pilgrimage seasons.
Travelers will appreciate the relatively low cost and the availability of frequent services, especially during pilgrimage seasons.
Stops for restrooms and refreshments are provided at designated service stations along the route. While the trip is longer than by train, the scenic desert landscapes and opportunity for rest along the way make it a viable choice for those not in a rush.
Ticket prices typically range from SAR 60–90 ($16–24), which makes this one of the most cost-effective ways to complete the journey. Tickets can be booked at SAPTCO stations, through their website, or in some cases, via third-party platforms.
Ticket prices typically range from SAR 60–90 ($16–24), which makes this one of the most cost-effective ways to complete the journey. Tickets can be booked at SAPTCO stations, through their website, or in some cases, via third-party platforms.
Quick Fact:
Intercity buses in Saudi Arabia, operated by companies like SAPTCO, connect major cities such as Jeddah, Medina, Riyadh, and Mecca with budget-friendly fares. These buses are air-conditioned, gender-segregated, and often offer reclining seats, making them a comfortable option for long-distance travel.
Intercity buses in Saudi Arabia, operated by companies like SAPTCO, connect major cities such as Jeddah, Medina, Riyadh, and Mecca with budget-friendly fares. These buses are air-conditioned, gender-segregated, and often offer reclining seats, making them a comfortable option for long-distance travel.
Car rental
Renting a car offers full control over your itinerary. If you’re comfortable driving long distances and want to stop along the way, this could be a great choice. Saudi highways are modern and well-marked, though you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) and valid insurance.
The trip takes around 4.5–5 hours and offers scenic views of the desert landscape. However, fuel costs, tolls, and unfamiliar road rules may deter some travelers. This is best suited for adventurous or experienced drivers, or groups looking to split the cost.
The trip takes around 4.5–5 hours and offers scenic views of the desert landscape. However, fuel costs, tolls, and unfamiliar road rules may deter some travelers. This is best suited for adventurous or experienced drivers, or groups looking to split the cost.
Plane
While not the most common choice for this route, flying from Mecca to Medina is possible, though Mecca doesn’t have its own airport. Travelers would need to first travel to King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah, about 1.5 hours away by car or taxi, and then catch a flight to Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz International Airport (MED) in Medina. The flight itself takes about 1 hour, but when you factor in check-in, security, and transit to and from the airports, the total travel time can stretch to 4–6 hours. A few domestic carriers, such as Saudia, flyadeal, and Flynas, operate this route with multiple departures daily. Fares can vary widely based on booking time and season, typically ranging from SAR 150–400 ($40–100) one way.
In conclusion, traveling from Mecca to Medina has never been more convenient, thanks to a range of reliable transportation options. While buses and private cars remain accessible and cost-effective for many, the Haramain High-Speed Train clearly stands out as the most efficient, modern, and comfortable way to travel between the two holy cities. With reduced travel times, high-frequency schedules, and first-class onboard services, it meets the needs of both pilgrims and general travelers alike. Whether you’re planning your journey during peak pilgrimage seasons or a quieter time of year, the train offers a professional, stress-free alternative to road or air travel. For those looking to make the most of their time and ensure a smooth experience, choosing the Haramain Train is a smart, dependable decision.